Tyne Bar - NE6 1LP
Quite possibly the best drinking spot in the city. Tucked under the bridge in Ouseburn, Tyne Bar has outdoor seating by the river, regular live music, and a buzzing, friendly atmosphere that feels exactly how you imagined uni life would be.
Perfect for that first flat trip out when everyone’s still figuring each other out - cheap drinks, good vibes, no notes.
Mother Mercy - NE1 1EE
If you’re trying to impress with a bit of class, this is your move. Hidden in an unassuming basement, Mother Mercy serves up beautifully crafted cocktails without the (too) inflated price tag.
It’s the kind of place that makes you look like you’ve got your life together, even if you absolutely don’t.
Highly recommend bringing your parents here when they visit... and they’re paying.
Olive and Bean - NE1 5PN
The perfect city centre brunch spot. Big slices of cake, hefty sandwiches, and coffee that actually tastes like coffee. Great for a lazy Saturday debrief with your flatmates - especially if you're still recovering from a chaotic Friday night. Bonus points included for the cozy atmosphere and generous portions.
This is literally the café that sold me on attending Newcastle.
Aiden’s Kitchen - NE2 1RH
A Jesmond gem with a cult following. Think stacked pancakes, Turkish eggs, and artisan coffee in a chill, Instagram-worthy setting. Get there early or expect a queue, but trust me, your flat will thank you for it.
Tiny Tiny - NE1 6UF
It may be small, but it’s big on flavour. Ideal if you’re after top-tier vegetarian or vegan food. Perfect for a midweek flatmate catch-up or a solo lunch that somehow turns into a group outing. Toasties, salads, iced coffee - all next-level.
Pizzeria Francesca - NE2 2NA
A true Newcastle institution and a total budget-friendly win. Just off Osborne Road in Jesmond, this place lets you go half pizza, half pasta - ideal for the indecisive or anyone trying to maximise their meal.
Cozy, chaotic, and loved by generations of students.
Portofino - NE1 1DE
Planning a birthday dinner or a “we survived Week One” celebration? Portofino delivers classic Italian trattoria vibes without wrecking your student loan. Great pasta, hearty portions, warm lighting, fancy enough to feel like a treat, but casual enough that you don’t need to iron a shirt.
Honourable Mentions:
No explanation needed - just go: Brack Burger, Alfie's, Mowgli, Little Dumpling House, Scream for Pizza, Kiln.
Parents-in-town level places, AKA when someone else is footing the bill: Victor’s, The Muddler, Lola Jeans, 21, Khai Khai, and Gino’s.
Whether you’re flexing your foodie knowledge or just trying to avoid the dreaded “where are we going?” group chat spiral, these spots will earn you instant respect, and probably a few IOUs for future recommendations.